David McCampbell

Profession: Fighter Ace

Nationality:

Biography: David McCampbell was an American naval aviator and war hero best known for being the United States Navy's all-time leading flying ace and top F6F Hellcat ace. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his exploits in World War II, and his leadership played a significant role in the success of Air Group 15 in the Pacific War.

McCampbell attended Staunton Military Academy and Georgia School of Technology before graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1933. He initially faced discharge due to the Great Depression but returned to service in 1934.

Ultimately he served on USS Portland and earned his pilot's wings in 1938. Surviving USS Wasp's sinking in 1942, his combat career escalated as he led Fighter Squadron 15 from 1943 and became Commander of Air Group 15 on USS Essex.

During the War, McCampbell was credited with 34 aerial victories, setting a record for single-mission aerial combat by downing nine enemy planes during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on October 24, 1944. For his actions in the First and Second Battles of the Philippine Sea and the Battle of Leyte Gulf, he was awarded the Medal of Honor.

After the war, McCampbell held several significant positions, including instructor at the Armed Forces Staff College and Senior Naval Aviation Advisor to the Argentine Navy. He commanded USS Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Korean War and was promoted to captain in 1952. McCampbell's final assignments involved the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Continental Air Defense Command.

McCampbell retired in 1964 and passed away in 1996, later being interred at Arlington National Cemetery. His legacy includes a passenger terminal at Palm Beach International Airport named after him and his induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame (1996) and the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame (1999). The USS McCampbell (DDG-85) was christened in his honor in 2000.

Born: January 16, 1910
Birthplace: Bessemer, Alabama, USA

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rooster
Star Sign: Capricorn

Died: June 30, 1996 (aged 86)